CWU 36 P Jacket ..help required..a question Gentleman.

[bn1966]

I've just scored a CWU 36 P Nomex (Summer) flight jacket Propper International contract.

The jacket has an elastic strap inside the lining across the shoulders. I can feel it moving against my shoulders during certain movements. Not sure I like the feeling. I've owned CWU 45s before and don't recall any elastic.

My question is: a) it's function? b) if I have it removed, will that detract from the jacket?

Thanks Gents.

 

[Worf]

I heard it said that the elastic strap is to keep the bi-swing or "action back" functional and retracting. I repeat this is only what I've heard I don't own any.

Worf

 

[Peacoat]

I have several leather jackets with the bi swing back. They all have the elastic straps crisscrossed across the back. Not sure the 36 P is built that way, though. My issue nylon flight jackets have a standard back with no need for the elastic straps.

 

[dilbert123]

The earliest CWU (Cold Weather Unit) 36P's had the "bi-swing back", also known as"action pleats". The bi-swing was discontinued in 1982, reportedly due to the possibility of interference with ejection seats. You must have one of the earlier models I guess while your other jacket(s) were newer. In my opinion the older are better as I like the action pleats. It is standard to place an elastic strap inside the back to keep the pleats in proper line. All U S Navy G-1 jackets (leather) which have the bi-swing back have this elastic, although it is common for them to become weak and no longer useful in old age. So, yes it is functional and, I wouldn't remove it were I you. It is part and parcel of the jacket and was original. But, of course, the jacket is yours and your comfort is paramount, so if it bothers you (I have never felt the straps in mine) then by all means have it taken out. It would detract from the jacket's value, but these jackets are not hugely expensive anyway, so I wouldn't worry.
Best of luck!

 

[bn1966]

Thank you very much for your input gentleman, thanks Worf, thanks Peacoat & thank you dilbert123.